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Stovetop Burgers - How to Cook Perfect Juicy Patties on the Stove Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

This classic stovetop burger recipe shows you how to cook juicy, flavorful burgers right on your stove using a simple skillet. Made with ground chuck and perfectly seared for a delicious crust, these burgers are topped with melted cheese and your favorite condiments and served on toasted buns for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Burger Patties

  • 1 pound ground chuck (80%-85% lean)
  • Kosher or sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Toppings and Condiments

  • 4 slices American or Cheddar cheese
  • 4 burger buns
  • Condiments of choice such as ketchup, mustard, and mayo
  • Toppings such as lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles

Instructions

  1. Mix: Place the ground chuck in a medium-size mixing bowl. Sprinkle it evenly with kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gently mix the ingredients together to combine without overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
  2. Divide: Portion the mixture into four equal parts for consistent burger sizes.
  3. Form Patties: Take one portion of the meat and gently press it into a round patty about 1 inch thick on a plate. Do not smooth out the surface completely—leave a slightly rough, craggy edge and avoid pressing the patty too flat to retain juiciness.
  4. Shape Patty Moat: Using your thumb or fingers, press a shallow “moat” about ¼ to ½ inch from the edge around the patty, making sure the edges are slightly raised. This technique prevents the burger from puffing up too much during cooking and helps it cook evenly.
  5. Preheat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. There is no need to grease the pan as the fat in the ground chuck will suffice.
  6. Cook Burgers: Carefully place the patties in the skillet with space between each. Let them cook undisturbed until they develop a nicely browned sear and the meat has cooked about halfway up the sides.
  7. Flip and Cook: Flip the burgers and cook to your preferred doneness. The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure food safety.
  8. Add Cheese: If using cheese, remove the skillet from heat. Place a slice of cheese on each burger and cover the skillet to allow the residual heat and steam to melt the cheese perfectly.
  9. Assemble Burgers: Toast the burger buns if desired. Place the cooked patties on the buns and top with your favorite condiments and toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your stovetop burgers immediately while warm and juicy for a classic homemade burger experience.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the ground meat to maintain tender and juicy burgers.
  • Creating a moat around the patties helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Feel free to customize toppings and condiments to suit your taste.
  • Toasting buns adds extra flavor and texture to your burger.